I had a scrap 4×4 piece of wood sitting around and decided to put it to use. Drilling the holes in this desk caddy was a bit harder than it looks. This was my third try. It made me wish for a drill press. But, if you have a steady hand and a good eye, a standard drill will work. I love that it echoes the shapes of the keys on the keyboard. I went with a sleek look, but you can paint or decoupage the caddy any way you want. Bonus: It makes a great bookend too.

How to make a salvaged wood pencil and pen caddy

1. First cut the 4×4 in 4-inch pieces. (You might need more than one in case you mess up). Thanks Rick for cutting the wood for me!

2. Use a ruler and pencil to draw a grid to guide you when drilling the holes. My holes are about 1/2 inch from the edge and 1/2 inch from each other.

3. Measure three inches on the drill bit, and mark it with a flag of painter’s tape. This will ensure that all your holes are the same depth. Drill each of the holes, making sure that the drill is exactly straight up. I used a 1/2-inch drill bit, but if your pencils and pens are fatter, use a larger drill bit.

You are a genius. I hate the way pens and pencils co-mingle in traditional caddies. I love the keyboard echo and the neatness and being able to really see which pens and pencils are available. But if it took *you* three tries it will take me a dozen…. Sounds like I need to set aside a Sunday!

Lynn said,

It is very interesting to look and learn crafts which are amazing and yet so practical to make multiples of items.The great thing about this idea is simple, and the craft will make a great decor as well as pen holder.